KEN FIDLER, 54, from Tuebrook, took part in the trial in 2003/04.

The housing officer for the Citizen’s Advice Bureau was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) in 2000.

But, since taking part in the trial, Mr Fidler has been in remission.

After collapsing in his GP surgery, Mr Fidler was told to go to the Royal Liverpool Hospital for tests, which confirmed the condition.

Doctors waited to see how the disease progressed and then put him on chemotherapy tablets for six months.

Mr Fidler was in good health until August, 2003, when he relapsed.

He said: “My condition started to worsen, my glands became very swollen and I kept getting chest infections.

“I went back to the Royal for a check-up and they gave me an emergency blood transfusion.

“This is when Prof Pettitt told me about the trial and I decided to take part. From September, 2003, to April, 2004, I visited the hospital every four weeks for three days.

“I have been in remission ever since, it is fantastic.

“I know it will never be cured and could come back, but it has been five years without any problems and I feel great. It is great to hear the drug now has a licence to treat people in my situation. My care at the Royal was marvellous and I am so thankful.”